WE thought it was all over - it is now.
Bashley are believed to be the first semi-professional or professional club in the country to become champions of their league after coming from behind to claim victory at Hillingdon Borough.
Needing just a point from their contest at Hillingdon, Bash were spraying the Champagne by the end of the night as they recorded yet another victory - their 27th of the league campaign - as Dave Wakefield and Ryan Moss saw them come from behind.
After making a slow start against a physical and direct Hillingdon side, Bash found themselves a goal adrift when James Duncan beat giant keeper David Elm inside 12 minutes.
But according to jubilant boss Steve Riley, that "gave us the kick up the backside we needed" and spurred Bash into action.
Wakefield - Bashley's version of Matt Le Tissier in terms of his penalty-taking prowess - hauled the New Forest club back on level terms as he converted from the spot after skipper Paul Gazzard was shoved over inside the box.
And a vastly-improved performance after half-time from Bash illustrated exactly why they enjoy a 24-point lead over the second-placed club as they dominated proceedings.
Richard Gillespie was denied by a superb save from the Borough keeper, while Elm was left as a virtual spectator for long periods.
Although the draw would have been enough, Bash finished with a flourish as Moss tucked away from close range after Wakefield's low cross to spark wild celebrations among the players.
Riley said: "They gave us a few problems in the first half but the second half was a different story.
"The tempo was higher and put them under a heck of a lot of pressure. But I was delighted when Ryan scored the winner because he deserved a goal."
Riley added: "It was a bit strange to win it away from home, but the players were buzzing anyway.
"I'm so proud of them and what they've done this season. It has been an incredible achievement."
Asked what the secret of their success was this season, Riley - clutching a Champagne bottle - laughed: "It's probably just me!
"No, they are a fantastic bunch of lads, they work very hard and we've got some quality players in key areas.
"Everybody at the club has pulled together, worked tremendously hard and it has all just clicked into place perfectly.
"It has probably surprised me a bit with how well it's gone.
"We're already planning to go out and celebrate this weekend, now I'll just have to ask the missus to see if I'm allowed to go!"
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